Colfax Co. - Peeking into the Past (June 1920) NEGenWeb Project
PEEKING INTO THE PAST (June, 1920)
By The Colfax County Press
Colfax County, Nebraska


The Colfax County Press publishes a weekly column entitled Peeking into the Past, which is comprised of articles taken from earlier Colfax County Press files, written by Helen C. Evans. A special thank you to the Colfax County Press for allowing me to reprint those articles! The following are selections from that column:

June 3, 1920 - reprinted September 5, 1984

Dr Kavan was kept busy answering calls by the stork when fine baby girls arrived at the homes of Mr. and Mrs. James Molacek, northeast of town, and Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Veltrusky, residing 10 miles south. Early Monday morning, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Karel were gifted with a bouncing baby boy.

Henry Koza, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Wittgow and Mrs. Anton Faiman attended Memorial Day services at Stanton.

Miss Lucille Trojan returned to Omaha after a brief vacation here with relatives, since her graduation a registered nurse. She will make her headquarters in the city.

Ida, the twelve-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Blazej Wacha, has been reported seriously ill last week. At this writing her condition is greatly improved under the care of Dr. Knight, who now foretells a rapid recovery.

Anton Vlach and Anton Teply left for Bradish to do considerable improvements on Mr. Vlach’s farm a few miles out of Bradish.

Miss Catherine Knipping became the bride of John H. Ulrich of Elgin, at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic church in Howells. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. Pieper.
    The bridesmaid was the bride's sister, Anna and best man was Joseph Ulrich of Petersburg, brother of the bridegroom.
    The newly-weds will leave Howells in a few days for Elgin, where they will make their home north of Elgin.

A baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. William Wiese, according to Dr. Myers.

The Nelson Motor Co. of Howells sold a Scripps-Booth 5-passenger car and a Ford touring car to Edward Shuster last week.

Mrs. Catherine Folda of Howells has been indisposed the latter part of the week, but now is on the mend. Dr. Myers is attending.

The Schuyler Independents, a fast classy club of real merit, came over to Howells as per schedule and engaged in a game of ball with the Baumert beauties. Howells won to the tune of 6 to 5.

John Asche of near Leigh, was in Schuyler, Monday and presented an exceedingly battered condition, the result of a fistic encounter with his brother-in-law, Adolph Vasek. The trouble arose over the settlement of a loan.
    This may, and it may not, settle the dispute as ill feeling has been said to exist between the two men for some time past.

Louis Mastny of Schuyler purchased an immense Greyhound, measuring 52 feet from tongue to tail, and weighing 4,500 pounds. The price was $1,450.
    This animal has a terrific howl, and will be particularly busy and active during the months of July and August, and is especially fond of shocked grain.
    Masty will have his purchase on exhibition within a few days and invites neighbors to call and make an inspection. This Greyhound is a threshing machine of the very latest model of this type.

The large caterpillar tractor to be used to grade the Lincoln highway between Schuyler and Columbus was unloaded in Schuyler this week.
    The equipment also includes a “cool shack.” The tractor has the power of 90-150, and will pull two 12-foot graders on this work.
    County Highway Commissioner Vrana states that his greatest trouble is now getting men to properly man this machinery.

W. H. Roether, clerk of the district court, will present his resignation to tje courty commissioners to take effect July 1, as Mr. and Mrs. Roether will leave for their new home in Idaho the fore part of July.

St. Mary’s church in Schuyler was the scene of the pretty wedding of Miss Mary Wachal and Anton Jedlicka, Jr. Father Vlcek officiated at the ceremony.

Miss Helen Houfek became the bride of Edward Lambracht at St. Augustine’s Catholic church in Schuyler. The ceremony was performed by Father O'Sullivan of North Bend.

Mrs. Stanley Kracl passed away at the farm home northwest of Rogers last Thursday evening, after an illness of a few weeks with inflammatory rheumatism. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Vlcek at St. Mary Catholic church in Schuyler.

Emil Konvalin and bride arrived at Howells by motor from Pierce for a few days’ visit at the J. R. Novak home. Mr. Konvalin was married the preceeding day to Miss Agnes Smith of Pierce. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Konvalin, one time Howells residents and later owing the present Vaclav Simerl farm southward from town.

Miss Kutin left for Harrah, Okla., for a visit with relatives and on her return trip will bring her little brother home who had been staying with his grandparents since the death of Mrs. Kutin.

F. J. Richtig, accompanied by Mrs. Richtig and son, F. J. Miller and Emil Hamernik went by motor to Norfolk to drive back two Studebaker cars, one of which was purchased by Mr. Miller. While at Humphrey they were caught in a rain storm and were forced to leave the cars there and return by rail.


June 3, 1920 - reprinted September 12, 1984

Miss Mildred F. Konicek and Jerome J. Dolezal, a prosperous young farmer of near Howells were married Tuesday at the Trinity church in Heun. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Konicek of near Heun. She has been one of the successful teachers the past year in the local school.
    The bridal pair was escorted to the altar by Miss Ida Konicek and Hubbart Miller. The newly weds departed for a wedding trip which will take them to various points in the east and on their arrival in Clarkson, will settle on a farm owned by the groom south of Howells.

The New Zion Church at Clarkson was the scene of a pretty wedding yesterday when Jos. Skoda and Miss Blanche Makovsky launched upon the matrimonial sea.
    Mr. Skala is a tenant on the Jos. M. Bukacek farm, two miles east of town, being a fine young man of supreme character and the bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Makovsky, residing east of town. She is a charming young lady and is highly esteemed among her friends.

Rev. Filipi united Jos. Hejtmanek and Anna Cerny in holy matrimony this forenoon. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Max Hejtmanek, pioneer resident of this locality and the bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Cerny, residing four miles north of Clarkson.
    The two above weddings were of a quiet nature and were witnessed only by immediate relatives of the couples. Receptions were held in honor of the newly wedded couples at the respective homes of the bride’s parents, where the events were very sociably celebrated.

Prazak Motor Co., was successful in closing the hereinafter stated list of Ford cars, having sold touring cars to John Kulhanek, Anton Wiese, John F. Lange, Leo L. Wolff, Rev. R. M. Norden and Rudolf Kuzelka of Howells; R. V. Prokop, John Kalisek, Jos. V. Podany, Joseph Basta and Vaclav Jonas, Clarkson; Ford runabout to Leonard Rozmarin, Clarkson; Ford sedan to Ben A. Parr, Howells; Ford trucks to Jos. E. Hajek and Joseph Perina, Clarkson.

Theodore Kubik drifted in Waska, Mont., for several days stay, the object of his visit to be withheld for another week. Theo. reports that he likes western country and he plans to return there with the intention of making their permanent home there and engage in farming, having been in the game for some time.

Rychtig Bros. report the following sales this week: Ralph Podany, Paige; Edward Cada, Paige; Frank Brichacek, Paige; John Barta, Paige; Frank J. Miller, Studebaker; James Dytrych, Dodge; Vincence Tejkl, Dort; Jos Jura, Chevrolet truck.
    Purchasers of second-hand cars were Jos. Hospoka, Ford; Jos. Strnsko, Ford; E. Kanpp, Ford; Joe Richtig, Chevrolet; Henry Rosicky, Ford; George A. Scott, Ford; P. Stonacek, Ford; John Podany, Buick and Frank L. Tomka, Buick.

One of the most marvelous closing out sales ever known in the history of Clarkson will be staged at the former Podany and Son hardware andfurniture headquarters. The sale is in charge of Frank J. Parr of Stanton.

Adolf Bukacek and his sister, Mrs. E. R. Dudek came down from Neligh to attend the Memorial Day services here.

Mrs. Anton Stepanek departed this life after an illness of a few days duration. Miss Paula Jelinek Stepanek was born June 29, 1876 in Bohemia. She married Anton Stepanek in the year 1891 when she was still in her native land. Three years after their marriage, they emigrated to the United States and located in the Tabor locality, south of Howells.
    She is survived by her husband; and seven children, namely: Mary, Paula, Vincie, Frank, Joseph, Charles, Anton and Stanislav. Frank, her oldest son died in camp while serving the colors.
    She is also survived by two half brothers, Jos. and Frank Jelinek and sisters, Mrs. Jos. Forman of Norfolk and Mrs. J. Meyer of South Omaha.
    Funeral services were held at St. John's Catholic church with Rev. Drbal officiating.

The Howells baseball organization, followed by scores of fans, journeyed Thursday to Schuyler to play a game with the first team or the Puritans of that place. Howells won the game 3 to 2.

John J. Dudycha conveyed us the information that he contemplated the opening of the picnic season at his farm, four miles south of Clarkson, Sunday, June 13.
    He has greatly improved the picnic grounds by installing gas lights, building a larger and better dancing platform and making other conveniences for the visiting public.
    John told us there will be picnics every two weeks and the Jirovec orchestra has been engaged for the entire season.

Marriage licenses were issued to Ed Lambrecht, Schuyler, over 21 and Helen Houfek, Schuyler, over 18; Charles L. Luthr, Rogers, 19 and Martha Will, Rogers, 19; Jaroslav Dolezal, Howells, 28 and Mildred F. Konicek, Clarkson, 21.

Adolph Bukacek was in the furniture and undertaking business in Clarkson. In his store he handled pianos, sewing machines, Edison phonographs, music, paints, window glass, and a full line of rugs and linoleums.


June 3, 1920 - reprinted September 19, 1984

On account of the inclemency of the weather but a fair-sized crowd attended the William R. Dostal sale of Durham Shorthorn cattle at Howells. The top price was $300 paid by Frank Eusterbrock for a Shorthorn bull and others sold for figures ranging from $265 to $200.00.

Neilson Motor Company of Howells has secured the representation of the Napoleon motor trucks, which output ranks among the best manufactured in the United States.

A social dance will be held at Tabor by the Z.C.K.J. Lodge. Music will be furnished by the Tabor band and the best of order will be maintained.

For Sale: A complete Avery threshing machine consisting of a separator 36x60 and 40x80 tractor. Same is in good condition and is as good as new. John Pospichal, Route 3, Clarkson.

Mr. and Mrs. Will Naber, Mr. and Mrs. Will Vlach and Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Hobel of Leigh left by auto for a six weeks trip through Colorado and Montana. The parties will travel in three autos and will camp in the open as much as possible. Two weeks will be spent in Denver and later a tour will be made through Yellowstone park.

Colfax County Supt. Vogltance issued his report on 8th grade examinations, which were taken in his office. Two hundred and twenty-seven, seventh and eighth grade students from Colfax county passed. Those from Clarkson passing the examinations were: Stanley Novotny, Frank Dworak, Libbie Kvetensky, Frank Lapour, Longin Sousek, Adela Hejtmanek, Anna Molacek, Maurice Craig, Vlasta Janecek, Agnes Janecek, Martha Menke, John Ternes, Edward F. Filipi, Edwin Cada, Frank J. Cada, Elizabeth, Frances Gross, Bohous Hobza.
    Those from Howells included: Adolph Horak, Alice Misek, Lillian Rydell, Edwin Rydell, John Rydell, Stanley Sobota, Helen Wasko, Joseph Misek, Lillian Novak, Leonard H. Schuster, William Cakl, Emma Tresnak, Catherine Baumert, Scholastica Bayer, Louise Becher, Edward Heun, Lucille Limbach, Clara Stangel, Victor Wragge.

Supt. Vogltance also gave us the number of 8th grade graduates from rural and private schools in Colfax county for the past 5 years: 1916-57, 1917-37, 1918-76, 1919-57, 1920-94.
    The number of 12 grade graduates from the four 12th grade schools in the county, Clarkson, Howells, Leigh and Schuyler: 1916-34; 1917-49; 1918-65; 1919-64; 1920-68.
    School Census: 1916-4266; 1917-4294; 1918-4142; 1919-4049; 1920-Not in yet.

Anton Hejtmanek and wife have a little daughter at their home who arrived Sunday.

Anton Janda has been given the contract for digging the ditches for the extension to the Clarkson water works and commenced work on the job yesterday morning.

Little Evan Jonas had his right arm broken between the wrist and elbow by having a heavy gate at the Jonas & Zak stock yards fall upon him. Dr. Wirth attended to his injuries.

Marshal Hajek says that he proposes to see to it that the tax is paid on every dog in Clarkson within the next ten days. After that date he intends to bring his trusty shotgun into service and commence the slaughter of all untaxed dogs.

The Clarkson public schools closed May 22 for the summer vacation.

At the special meeting of the voters of school district No.58 held in the high school building, it was decided to buld a two-room addition to the north school building. Work on the same will commence within the next few days.

Bruno Schmidt and family and Oscar Noh took their departure for North Yakima, Wash., where they expect to make their future home.

Last Thursday night John Noh shipped the last of a large bunch of sheep, that he had been feeding at the Will Hahn farm north of town, to the South Omaha market. Although grain and hay were exceptionally high the past winter, Mr. Noh made a nice profit on his feeding.

The Clarkson village board organized last Tuesday evening by electing Anton Karel as chairman for the ensuing year. Joseph Mlnarik was appointed cler[k]; F. W. Noh, treasurer; Peter Hajek, marshal and water commissioner.

To the music of the Clarkson band, which accompanied them, the Hajek-Podany wedding party drove into town this morning from Stanton county, to the Roman Catholic church, where at high noon, Miss Rose Hajek and James Podany were united in the holy bonds of wedlock by Rev. Zak.


June 10, 1920 - reprinted September 26, 1984

The annual meeting of the Colfax County Good Roads Association met in Schuyler, June 5. The following were elected to serve during the year 1920: Fred Kluck, president; R. H. Goodge, vice president and W. C. Hronek, secretary-treasurer.
    The following Governors were also named: Con L. Mares, Rogers; J. E. Higgins, Colfax; Harry McNally, Maple Creek; F. J. Mejstrik, Lincoln; Emil Totusek, Adams; A. E. Brichacek, Midland; Frank Vrba, Grant; John O’Brien, Schuyler; Alfred Loseke, Shell Creek; George Reininger, Leigh; Joseph Suchan, Stanton and Charles Jones, Richland.
    Town Governors are: Frank Dudek, Rogers; A. J. Fajman, Clarkson; F. K. Sindelar, Howells; Jaroslav Folda, Schuyler, R. H. Goodge, Leigh and R. C. Nash, Richland.
    Governors at Large: H. E. Phelps, Howells; W. J. Moore, Clarkson and J. K. Semrad, Howells.

The Clarkson baseball team defeated Stanton by the score of 4 to 3. Clarkson players were: Vlach ss, R. Tomes 2b, Schultz 1b, E. Vitek 3b, B. Tomes 1b, Knapp p, A Vitek rf, Jonas lf and Arnold cf.

Miss Florence Wolf, sister of Jos. O. Wolf of this city, was married to Edward Adams in Omaha.

Dr. F. J. Kalal, former physician and surgeon of Clarkson, has informed us that he is now permanently located in Grand Island, where he will follow his profession.

Philip Svoboda was called to Blair this week to assist the Crowell Lumber and Grain Company at that place.

Jos. M. Bukacek, originator of the Buko automatic oiler and head of the manufacturing firm of the same name, has leased the south half of the Severa and Roether building on Main street and will move the company’s plant into that building.
    Office rooms will be established in the same apartment. We are told that the present location north of Moore’s store is proving to be too small for the rapidly growing enterprise.

Miss Esther Faiman, who recently arrived home from Anselmo, Nebr., where she had been teaching in one of the schools, is now the local representative of the Missouri Life Insurance Co., St. Louis, Mo., having been appointed this week by H. R. Pettit, general agent.

Edward Zelenda sold his interest in the pool hall and soft drink business to John Roether, the place now being operated by John and Joseph Roether.
    Ed also had half interest in the electrical business which he and Joe Roether carried on for some time, having disposed of the same to his partner. We are told that Ed’s intentions are to farm, as soon as he is able to procure a farm.

Fred Houfek, veteran of the late war and a young farmer of near Schuyler, took his life Friday by shooting himself. The motive which lead to the ending of his life is said to have been ailing health since the time of his return from France. He had been gased while going over the top in the Argonne sector.
    He was born in Colfax county, February 17, 1898 and was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Houfek. Besides his parents, he is survived by five brothers and three sisters.

Last Saturday we succeeded in closing the sale of Vaclav Podany’s fine acreage property to John Petr, Jr., for the consideration of $12,000.00.
    This place was formerly owned by Jos. Krahulik and later still by Vaclav Telecky and is considered one of the best properties of this kind in Clarkson, being attractively located in the west part of town.
    The property consists of 6 acres of land and a suitable set of buildings including a beautiful fruit-bearing orchard. This is the fourth sale of property made through the realty firm of Odvarka Bros. within the last few days.

Bargains at the Fred Colsch store were: 100 lbs. chick feed $4.00, Motor oil one gallon only 60c, 25 lbs. Mica Axel grease $2.25.

Mrs. Emanuel Novotny and son, Stanley, were passengers to Omaha, where the latter underwent an operation at the advice of specialist. They were accompanied to the city by John J. Novotny.

A large dancing platform is now in the course of construction on the Jaroslav Krofta farm north of town, the dimensions of which are 50x60 ft. The Krofta Bros. intend to hold a picnic there every Sunday and the first dance will be June 20 with the Krofta orchestra furnishing music for the dance.

The baseball schedule for Clarkson thus far arranged is: June 13 Clarkson at Howells, June 20 Clarkson at Schuyler, June 27 Beemer at Clarkson, July 4 Clarkson at Leigh, July 11 Howells at Clarkson, July 18 Schuyler at Clarkson, July 25 Leigh at Clarkson, August 1 Dodge at Clarkson, August 8 Clarkson at Stanton, August 12 Madison at Clarkson, August 15 Clarkson at Dodge and August 29 Clarkson at Madison.

Frank Vidlak went to Omaha to be at the bedside of his mother, who will undergo surgery in one of the city’s hospitals.


June 10, 1920 - reprinted October 3, 1984

Mrs. Miloslav Fiipi, who had been visiting at the Rev. Filipi home for the past 4 weeks, departed for her home in Wisconsin, where she is staying with her parents during the absence of her husband.
    As it is known to most of The Press readers, Mr. Filipi still remains in Europe, where he had been for some time. The greater part of Mr. Filipi’s stay in Europe was spent in the devastated regions of ill-fated Russia and is now visiting relatives in his native country of Bohemia. His intentions are that after a stay in Bohemia, he will return to this country and join his family.

Miss Josephine Fillipi returned home for the summer after attending the university in Lincoln.

Miss Vlasta Humlicek left for Boulder, Colo., where she will take a six weeks course at the Colorado state university.

Miss Josephine Zrust arrived home from Pennsylvania, where she attended one of the foremost educational institutions in the east.

Miss Kalixta Teply went to Fremont to enroll as a student at Midland College during the summer months.

Peter Zak in company with his daughters, Misses Emma and Mary, went to Omaha, where Miss Emma underwent an operation for the removal of her tonsils, which have caused her considerable annoyance.

Miss Lilly Suchy and Miss Mary Kudrna left for Kearney, where they will take special training courses and prepare themselves for teaching next fall.

Jos. J. Vanek and Jaroslav Vrbicky of Howells were in town and this office acknowledged a pleasant call from the gentlemen.

Born to Mr. and Mrs. James Budin, Jr., a fine baby girl, reports Dr. Kavan. Mother and baby are doing real well.

Stanley Svoboda and his sister, Miss Lucy, went to Lynch to visit at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lad Hanel. Miss Svoboda intends to remain in Lynch for a longer visit.

Ed Zelenda motored to Schuyler, where he took the overland limited to Twin Falls, Idaho, to view the country. He is being accompanied on the trip by his sister, Mrs. Wm. Roether, who will meet her husband there and locate permanently.

Frank Uridil, manager of the local Crowell Lumber and Grain Co., informs us that they now have an automatic truck dump completed and are again prepared to buy all kinds of grain.

Dr. Knight was called to Leigh last Saturday to the Ray Alberts home and before his departure the parents were gifted with a big baby girl.

A few specials at Fred Colsh’s store were 2½ oz. Union Leader, 2 pkgs. 25c; Tuxedo Smoking Tobacco 2 for 25c; Old Dutch Cleanser 3 cans 25c.

Mrs. J. A. Sindelar and Mrs. Stephen Glodowski and the Misses Rose and Mary Havrda of the Howells locality visited friends in Clarkson today.

Misses Bertha and Olga Dusatko were passengers to Linwood yesterday, where they will visit relatives in Butler county for some time.

Pete Botsch and Theodore Mohr returned the first part of the week at Leigh, from Texas where each invested in 20 acres of land.

Mrs. Otto Asche was so unfortunate Saturday as to break her arm. She was carrying some water when she fell with the above mentioned result.

Arthur, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Maw of Leigh, fell out of a tree and broke the bones in both of her [sic] forearms.

Richtig Bros. have a new employee in the person of Jos. Vacin, who takes charge of the repairing department. Joe is an experienced mechanic and no doubt will prove a valuable asset to the business.

Nathan Moore and his sister, Miss Mabel, went to Omaha on the passenger to visit relatives in the metropolis.

Many Clarkson persons attended the church celebration and dance at the Mrazek church and we understand that many got caught in the heavy rain and had all they could do to get home on the muddy roads.

Frank and Rudolph Bazata of Howells left for Rochester, Minn., where the latter will remain for an indefinite time receiving treatment at the hands of the world-famed surgeons, the Mayo brothers.

Mrs. Fanny Dworak and mother, Mrs. Studnicka with Miss Mary Drahota of Howells at the wheel, made a motor drive to Dodge, Friday.


June 10, 1920 - reprinted October 10, 1984

Mrs. F. J. Prucha of Howells, accompanied by sons, Ernest, Leonard and Gilbert, left by motor for western points to spend a summer vacation. They expect to spend some time at Chappel visiting with the F. J. Novak family and then go on to Julesburg, Colo., to view the natural sights of that state.

Mrs. Jos. Fillipi returned to Clarkson from an extended sojourn in California, where she spent the winter months.

Coming to Clarkson: United Doctors’ Specialist will be at the Noh Hotel, Friday, June 18, 1920, one day only from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Examination and consultation Free.
    These doctors are experts in the treatment of chronic diseases of the blood, liver, stomach, heart, kidneys or bladder, rheumatism, sciatica, dropsy, leg ulcers, weak lungs, and those afflicted with long standing, deep seated, chronic diseases, that have baffled the skill of other physicians,should not fail to call.
    The diagnostician of the United Doctors, licensed by the state of Nebraska, for the treatment of chronic diseases of men, women and children, offer to all who call on this visit, consultation, examination and advice free. They have a system and method of treatments that are sure and certain in their results.
    According to their system no more operation for appendicitis, gall stones, goiter, piles, etc., as all cases accepted will be treated without operation or hypodermic injection. If you have kidney or bladder troubles, bring a 4-ounce bottle of your urine for chemical analysis and miscropic [sic] examination.
    Worn-out and run-down men and women, no matter what your ailment may be, no matter what you have been told, or the experience you have had with other physicians, settle it forever in your mind. If your case is incurable, they will tell you so. Consult then upon this visit, as it costs you nothing for an examination.
    Married ladies must come with their husbands and minors with their parents.

Miss Emma Maliha entered the employment of a saleslady at the Pimper Variety store.

Mrs. Frank Vidalk and son, and Anna Karel went to WHowells yesterday for a brief visit.

Frank Hampl, Optometrist, Howells has made the announcement that he will make regular trips to Clarkson and has made arrangements with Dr. Knight to be in his office every Friday, prepared to do all work in the optical line.

William Roether loaded his household goods and is leaving Schuyler for Idaho to make his new home. Mrs. Roether and child will visit in Clarkson with relatives before departing for Idaho. Mr. Roether estimates that he will be enroute about 5 or 6 days.

Frank Coufal has been appointed clerk of the district court of Colfax county by the county commissioners. He replaces William H. Roether, who resigned and moved to Idaho.

Miss Antonia Bohata and Joseph Suchan were married in St. John’s church by Rev. J. Drbal at Howells. They were attended by Miss Frances Stanek and George Fiala. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bohata of Howells and Mr. Suchan is one of our foremost enterprising businessmen and ranks high in social circles.

Rupert Folda, Jr., is a new assistant at the Owl Cafe in Howells conducted by Messrs. Fiala and Vacha.

Howells Chief of the Fire Department F. Dickey, accompanied by Firemen James Karel, P. J. Bogner, Jerry Vlacha, J. J. Sindelar, Jr., drove the company’s new fire truck to Schuyler Monday evening to participate in a firemen’s initiation held there that night.


June 17, 1920 - republished October 17, 1984

Mrs. Emanuel Novotny purchased the residence and lot belonging to Karel A. Hobza, situated in the south part of town. Formerly this property was owned by the Emil E. Dudek family. The interior of the house is fully equipped, having all advantages of a modern home and will make Mrs. Novotny and her children a desirable living place.
    The Hobzas will most likely move to Schuyler.

F. W. Tuma, a traveling representative of the Old Line Insurance Co. of Lincoln, is putting his time in Clarkson since the last week soliciting business for his company.
    He informs us that he succeeded in appointing F. C. and William Schulz as general agents for this place.

After spending the past two or three weeks on a trip to Kansas, Karel and Albert O’Brien and their wives landed home on Thursday night. They made the trip in their jitney which they purchased jointly just before enduring the trip without any great mishap whatever. Most of their time was spent touring through the north part of Kansas visiting with Mr. O’Brien’s parents and with Mrs. Karel's relatives.

Miss Rose Klat, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Klat of this city and Stanley Spangler were married by County Judge Fiala. The bridegroom arrived some time ago from Idaho, where he intends to return with his bride next fall.

Flies are here, protect your horses with flynets. We have them in several styles. Pimper’s Variety Store.

Dr. Kaven was called to the Vinc Prokopec farm, nine miles north of town, to dress the wounds of their 18-year-old son caused by the kick of a vicious horse.
    The boy was tending to the horses and when passng near by was kicked squarely into the face, rendering him unconscious for some time. The boy received several deep lacerations about the face and an injured jaw bone.

Last Sunday afternoon, the Clarkson ball team, accompanied by a large throng of enthusiastic rooters, went over to Howells to stage their initial game with the locals for this season. Howells was victorious, winning by a score of 15 to 7. Howells players were Stangel, Zavadil, J. Suchan, Iwanaky, R. Suchan, Hook, Peltz, Sindelar and Haas. Clarkson players were Arnold, R. Tomes, Schultz, E. Vitek, Knapp, A. Vitek, Jonas, Karel and Sixta.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Palik of Howells was the scene of the wedding of Miss Grace M. Palik and Theodore Kubik. Rev. B. A. Filipi was the officiating pastor. The wedding took place at 8 is the morning.
    Miss Alta Palik, sister of the pretty bride, and Frank Kubik, a brother of the fortunate groom, were the only bridal attendants at the blith some ceremonial. The genial bride of the day was married in a most becoming traveling suit of dark blue tricotine, wearing a corsage bouquet of sweet peas. She was further adorned with a string of beautiful pearls, the same a gift of the groom.
    Immediately succeding the glorious rituals and the granting of happy felicitations, a wedding repast was served to the many present, after which the happy couple were escorted to the railroad station amidst jollifications of every sort, hand-clasps and congratulatory expressions sounded by the large multitude meeting at the train.
    Mr. and Mrs. Kubik left for their wedding trip which will include visits at St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minn. They will be at home to their host of friends July 1 at Wolf Point, Montana. The bride is a graduate of Howells high school in the year of 1918 and taught successfully in school District 38, 7 miles south of Howells.
    The bridegroom was born and raised in Clarkson. Having graduated Clarkson High School he also attended the state university in Lincoln, after which he taught in the Clarkson schools. When war broke out he joined the fighting forces and was made a lieutenant.

Yesterday morning at the Speas ranch home, 15 miles west of Casper, Wyo., occurred the marriage of Miss Myrtel Speas, who during the past year was a principal in our school, to Fred B. Brenner of Memphis, Tenn. The home bore many vases of lovely flowers artistically arranged.
    The bride was attended by Miss Margaret Speas, sister of the bride, and Royce Wagner assisted the groom. The groom is a native of Tennessee and is associated with his father in the wholesale business at Memphis, where the couple will make their home.

Thos. Hegemann of Howells suffered painful injuries yesterday by having his fingers caught in the gearing of a wash machine. Dr. Myers gave his surgical attention.

Miss Agnes Tresnak became the bride of Frank Hanzel at the office of County Judge Dern in the presence of August Belina, James Tresnak and Miss Josie Hanzel, the latter two being attendants.
    The bride was born in Stanton county and spent her entire life there, in fact, she was born upon the very farm which will now be her home Mr.Hanzel having purchased this farm a few years ago.
    The bridegroom is a nephew of August Belina, coming to Stanton several years ago since which time he has farmed at various points in the county.

Emil M. Bogner, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Alois Bogner of Howells, and Miss Marie A. Schinstock, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schinstock of West Point, were married at St. Mary’s church in West Point by the Rev. Father Peitz. They were accompanied to the altar by Miss Martha Bogner and Fred Schinstock.
    The couple will live in Fremont, where Mr. Bogner is employed.

Advertising is one of the avenues that leads to success in every business undertaking. The merchant who is always complaining of dull business is the man who neglects to advertise in his local paper. He has no right to expect the people to visit his establishment if he does not invite them to do so.

Marriage licenses were issued to the following: Preston O. Paden of Rogers 26 and Clara S. Reed, Rogers 18. Theo Kubik, Waska, Mont., over 21 and Grace M. Palik, Howells, over 18. Axel E. Hansen, Fremont and Pearl N. Walingford, Fremont 18. Joseph K. Suchan, Howells, over 21 and Antonia Bohata, Howells, over 18.

Dr. J. A. Tamisiea of Howells reports the birth of a baby boy at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Pinker.

Mrs. R. C. Norman sustained painful injuries when a swing in which she was resting at Howells broke while in motion. Dr. Meyers was called.

Mr. and Mrs. Anton Novak of Leigh welcomed a baby girl, who weighed 8 pounds. She was born Saturday, June 5.


June 17, 1920 - reprinted October 23, 1984

George Humlicek, who has been a bookkeeper at the First National Bank in Leigh, has severed his connection with the institution and left Sunday for his home in Clarkson. He was forced to take this step because of failing health.

Reports have been made several times recently in Leigh of the theft of money, auto parts, etc., from parties attending dances. During the winter one of our young ladies was relieved of $20 at a local hall; and a week ago Miss Anna Dickey was relieved of $7.00 at the Farmers hall. Several thefts of auto parts were also reported.

The Madison Warriors had blood in their eyes because of the trimming they got on their home grounds when Leigh defeated them by the score of 14 to 11. The game throughout was characterized as a rag-chewing powwow, but it availed them nothing and they simply had to take their medicine.

Although the prices of all Ford Motor Company products were advanced March 3, orders continue to stack up faster than they can be filled. At the present time there are 119,000 unfilled orders on file at the plant, together with a large foreign demand that is not being met.
    Speaking generally, the advance was $50, on all open cars and $100 on closed cars. The new prices are:
    Runabout, regular, $550;
    Runabout, with starter, $625;
    Touring car, regular, $575;
    Touring car, with starter, $650;
    Coupe with starter and demountable rims, $850;
    Sedan with starter and demountable rims, $975;
    Truck chassis with pneumatic tires and demountable rims, $640;
    Truck chassis with solid tires and clincher rims, $600;
    Fordson tractor, $850, all FOB. factory.

For Sale: A complete, Avery threshing machine consisting of a separator 36x60 and 40x80 tractor. Same in first class condition and as good as new. Will sell machine separately if purchaser desires it that way. I also have a 175 gallon gasoline tank and pump for sale cheap. John Pospichal, Rt. 3, Clarkson.

The families of A. H. and John T. L. Tichota and E. E. Brodecky report a most pleasant outing on Sunday. They left Howells in three autos and befOre the sun’s rays reached the sultry point, were in the state of Iowa, where they camped at various summer places neighboring the waterways.
    Towards evening they came to Omaha and viewed every park and entertainment point and enjoyed the nice motoring on the city boulevards.

Louis J. Evert of the Howells Motor Co., reports the sale of a jim-dandy 7-passenger Cadillac sedan to Joseph Dickey, banker at Snyder. The money involved to make the delivery of this splendid car totals $5,700.00. Mr. Dickey having traded in his 8 cylinder Willys-Knight which Mr. Evert sold to J. J. Sindelar, Jr.
    The Cadillac is well-termed the “Standard motor car” and reaches the height of performance to be a separate class, giving back to owners more than value received for the extra money expanded.

Anton Hlavaty arrived here to pay a visit to his friend and comrade in the late war, Jerry Holas. The two served in the same company overseas, both being volunteers in the CzechoSlovak army.

Rudolph Suchan was a passenger Tuesday morning to Omaha in the interests of the Suchan Bros. store in Howells.

Misses Laura and Emma Wragge were hostesses to a miscellaneous shower honoring Miss Grace Palik of Howells.

Edward Shuster was at the South Omaha Market with four carloads of fat cattle. He returned home the next day, very well pleased with the prices.

F. L. Sindelar sold a Wing & Son upright piano to the J. E. Sindelar orchastra, which will be used by the boys in rendering music during summer picnics and other entertainments.

Joseph Steffensmeier purchased the east 80 acres of the northwest quarter, section 3, in Maple Creek precinct in Stanton county, and James W. Barta purchased the west 80 adjoining. This land was owned by James A. Drahotà since last summer, when he aquired title from the. Misslestad heirs. The price paid by the two was not reported to us.

F. A. Wellman of Omaha has been in Howells for most of the week past staying at the home of his mother, Mrs. H. A. Wellman, and administering all aid possible in the crisis during the very critical illness of his nephew, Arthur Mills, who at this writing lies at the point of death.
    The young man is suffering from the dreaded disease of tuberculosis.


June 17?, 1920 - reprinted October 31, 1984
Note: These articles were undated, but the date of death of Casper Kerhli, mentioned below, was June 8, 1920, so the articles would have been soon after that date.

The Clarkson Hotel and Cafe in the former Kubik Restaurant building in Clarkson is now offering meals and hot lunches, hot or cold, served during all hours of the day, from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Rooms are furnished with clean and comfy beds, also hot ond cold water.

Lloyd Wilch was fined $25.00 and costs in police court by Judge Monday in Schuyler on the charge of assault and battery against Charles Stevens. Wilch attacked Stevens in front of the Pavlicek & Son meat market and followed him across the street,and when near the Michaelson restaurant, he struck Stevens and knocked him down. Stevens made no attempt to fight, but on the contrary endeavored to get away from Wilch.
    The affair was the outgrowth of ill feelings between the two families who are near neighbors.

Casper Kerhlie, a prominent farmer of Colfax County passed away at 9:30 of heart failure at his home northwest of Schuyler.
    He was in Schuyler earlier in the forenoon to see a physician about a pain in his chest and attended to some other business matters. After returning home he milked two cows and assisted with other chores. He complained of being tired and not feeling well and lay on the couch for only a few minutes when he quietly passed away.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Svatora are the proud parents of a little 8 lb. son that came to their home Sunday night. Mrs. Svatora and her little son are at the Schuyler hospital. The little son has the distinction of being the first child who was brought into this world by a Caesarean section by a local surgeon, the operation being performed in exactly two minutes.
    Both mother and child are doing nicely. Mrs. Svatora is the former Miss Bessie Kmoch.

The county commissioners and the county highway commissioner last week started the big state and county tractor and two graders at work on the Colfax highway, state project 35. Austin Cox, for the past year, as head mechanic for Kopac Bros. in this city, is in charge of the tractor, and Everett Jenkins on the lead grader. The monster caterpillar tractor hauls the two grades with ease.

C. M. Janecek arrived at his home in Schuyler after a four-weeks’ visit in Canada, Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Cleveland and New York.
    Mr. Janecek found conditions very favorable throughout most of the cities he visited, except Detroit, where it is estimated fully 100,000 men are out of employment.
    United States money is bringing 12 per cent premium in Canada. Sugar in Canada is very scarce and is selling at 21c a pound. None is allowed to be taken from the country.
    Mrs. Janecek and son, John, are now in Canada where they remain for a few more weeks.


June 20 [24?], 1920 - reprinted October 31, 1984

Walter Fechner and Miss Floyce Barr were married at Madison. From Madison, they left for Omaha, from where they left for South Dakota and will spend a week visiting with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Meyer.

Clarkson markets were: Wheat 2.50, Oats $1.00, Rye $1.80, Corn $1.60, Hogs $14.00, Butter 35c and Eggs 30c.

Leo Bogner of Howells brought in a load of cattle to the Omaha market which included 11 head of yearlings $16.00, the day’s top on this class of stock. They averaged 936 pounds and were mostly of Poll Angus breeding.
    Mr. Bogner said that these cattle had been on full feed of shelled corn, oats and alfalfa since the middle of December. He was obliged to finish them on prairie hay, not having enough alfalfa to carry them through the past few weeks.
    Two cows, almost old enough to vote, that Mr. Bogner can remember, but they have been busy raising beef calves almost as far back as Bogner can remember, but they were getting so old that he was afraid they might never pull through another winter.

Leonard Cerny arrived here by motor from Omaha for an extended visit at the F. W. Noh home.

Joseph Nagengast, a regular cattle feeder of Colfax County, marketed a bunch at prime fat heifers being Omaha market that were sold at the extreme top price of $15.00; none of the heifers being spayed, but they were very uniform in size and were of 989 pounds.

Frank Parr closed out the stock of merchandse he acquired in the trade with Vaclav Podany, having sold the remaining stock to local dealers.

Longin Folda and son, Lamar, arrived for a short visit with relatives. We were told that Mr. Folda had returned from a 6-weeks stay in a hospital.

F. A. Dvorak and Jaroslav Holas of Howells were in Clarkson, making arrangements to furnish the Clarkson Hotel and Cafe with ice this summer. We are informed that we may have an ice famine here this summer, since the crystal is getting short at this early stage.

Mr. and Mrs. George Pinker of Howells are rejoicing over the birth of a son at their home the latter part of the week.

Mrs. Joseph Kunhart of Omaha, mother of Mrs. Louis Brester of Howells, left for her home after an extended stay in the Brester home.


June 24, 1920 - reprinted November 7, 1984

C. M. Janecek arrived at his home in Schuyler, after a four weeks’ visit in Canada, Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Cleveland and New York. He reports a most enjoyable vacation. He found conditions very favorable throughout most of the cities that he visited, except Detroit, where it is estimated that fully 100,000 men are out of employment.

Joseph Nagengast, a regular cattle raiser and feeder of Colfax County, marketed a bunch of choice to prime heifers this week that sold at the extreme top on this class of stock and received $15.00 cwt. They were fattened on corn and alfalfa.

Jos. J. Hanzel and daughter, Helen, were up from Howells, Saturday.

Clarkson Markets were: Wheat $2.50, oats 1.00, rye 1.80, corn 1.60, hogs 14.00, butter 35c, eggs 30c.

We are in receipt of a communication from Mr. and Mrs. John J. Pechanec that they have safely reached San Diego, Calif., on the 6th of June, after making the trip overland in their jutney. They will remain long enough until Mr. Pechanec’s impaired health is benefitted by the climate in that country.

Filbert Wacha and Jos. Knipping left Monday forenoon in the former’s Ford coupe for a two week’ vacation and outing in Colorado and other adjoining states. Traveling overland their intention is to pay visits to all important points of interest along the route.

Word has reached here the other day informing local friends and relatives that Frank Cerv, a former harness maker of Clarkson, but now residing in Gregory, South Dakota, for the past 10 years, shot and killed an Indian who attempted to take Mr. Cerv’s life.
    According to the evidence introduced at the coroner’s inquest, Phil Cournoyer, a half breed Indian living on the Ponca creek southwest of Gregory, was dispatched to the "happy hunting grounds" by a shot gun in the hands of Frank Cerv, a farmer living in that vicinity.
    Cournoyer had been drinking heavily, haven gotten hold of a jug of moonshine whiskey, and while in this condition went to the home of Frank Cerv and became abusive and made the threat that he was going to clean that community of all the "Bohunks." Cerv was in the field and Mrs. Cerv sent her seven year old boy to notify him, while she took the other children and hid them in the pasture.
    Cerv before going home went to the Joe Papousek place and borrowed a Wichester shot gun as he expected trouble. Mr. and Mrs. Papousek accompanied him. When they reached the house, Cournoyer was asleep in his car. They finally aroused him and he was urged to go home and sleep it off. Cournoyer after much coaxing left but threatened to return and make a "Killing" according to the testimony of Mr. and Mrs. Cerv he did return, bringing a double shot gun. He drove in the yard, got out of his car, and started toward the house, carrying the gun with both hammers cocked. Cerv met him a short distance from the door and ordered him to "stay back" bit Cournoyer kept coming. Cerv when he came out of the house brought with him the gun he had borrowed, and when Cournoyer refused to halt, fired, the charge striking Cournoyer in the face and killed him instantly.
    Cerv instantly notified sheriff Huston, who went at once to the Cerv place. When he arrived he testified that he found the body of Cournoyer lying on its back. His loaded shot gun with both hammers cocked, was lying at his side and several extra loaded shells for the same were found in his pockets.
    All the testimony tended to show that Cournoyer was on the war path and that Cerv shot in self defense.
    John Douville, step-father of Cournoyer, also testified and his testimony also was in favor of Cerv, showing that after Cournoyer left the Cerv place, he went to the Douville home where he secured the gun, stating that one of the boys wanted to use it.
    The deceased has had quite a checkered career on the Rosebud. In the early days he was charged with rustling horses and cattle and when a homesteader lost any cattle or horses, Cournoyer and his gang were charged with running off with it. He served two terms in Leavenworth for rustling.
    The early settlers will remember the first Fourth of July celebration when the gang rode their horses in one of the saloons & punctured the walls by shooting through the ceiling. The old saloon building at Carlock also bears evidence of what the gang called fun.
    But of late years, Cournoyer, since the gang was broken up, has been living a quiet life except when crazed by liquor and the moonshine brand seemed to make him more daring and abusive than before.

Richtig Bros. report the sale of the following cars since the first of June: Frank D. Nykodem, Paige; John Tichota, Paige; Frank Blazek, Paige; Hamernik Bros., Studebaker and James Dlouhy, Studebaker. Used cars were sold to Anton Hron, Ford; John Vodehnal, Buick; John Schaffer, Dort and Albin Vraspir, Buick.

This week two new bread stations were opened in Clarkson, one being Moore’s store and the other at Pimper’s Variety store. Mr. Moore has the agency for Tip-Top bread and Mr. Pimper will carry a full line of baking, made by the Dodge Bakery. Besides the two stations, Ryan Co. and Jos. Gloser will continue to sell bread as heretofore.

Ed. J. Polcin sold the residence property he purchased last fall from Anton Odvarka, Sr. to Jose. Gloser, the deal having been closed Monday. Mr. Gloser is not quite decided whether or not he will occupy the building or whether the place will be rented.


June 24, 1920 - reprinted November 14, 1984

The Clarkson baseball team escorted by a large number of fans were at Schuyler, Sunday, where the club crossed bats with the Puritans, the score having resulted in favor of Schuyler 13 to 2.

Chas. A. Hobza, who sold his residence property here last week, went to Schuyler, where he purchased a house and four lots in the northwest part of the city, and it is the intention of Mr. and Mrs. Hobza to move to Schuyler during the middle of August.

"Wife and I spent our vacation camping last summer, smell of cooking brought rats. We went to town, got some Rat-Snap, broke up the cakes, put it outside our tent. We got all the rats alright - big fellows." Farmers, storekeepers, housewives, should use Rat-Snap. Sold in three sizes, 25c, 50c and $1.00. Sold and guaranteed by A. J. Karel & Sons and Wolf & Vitek, Clarkson.

The large host of friends of A. J. Fayman were glad to hear of his marriage to Miss Gertrude Markytan of Verdigre, the function having transpired on Tuesday of this week. The wedding took place at the Catholic church at Verdigre.
    Mr. Fayman is one of our champion young business men and is holding a responsible position with the Prazak Motor Co. We have the privilege of knowing the bride from recent years when she was teaching school in Clarkson. She is a charming young lady and will be welcomed to Clarkson by the circle of her former friends.
    Mr. and Mrs. Fayman are due to arrive here by the end of the week and for the time being will live with Mr. Fayman’s mother, Mrs. Jos. J. Fayman.

Miss Rosie Skoda returned to her employment in Omaha, after a three weeks vacation at the home of her brother, Jos. Skoda.

We understand that Ed J. Polcin is making arrangements to leave in the next few days for Antelope county where he intends to engage in farming on the section of land he purchased near Neligh last week.

Edith Roberts will star in the movie "The Triflers" at the Opera House on Sunday, June 27. Its a love story of a motorcycle cop and is a comedy.

One of the most serious auto accidents to have happened in this locality of late, took place early Monday morning on the road three miles west of Clarkson. The parties involved in the wreck were Lesley Janda and his cousin, Stanley Urbanek and Busse Bros. of near Neligh. According to the information received by us, the boys attended dances in the community and were returning to their homes about three o'clock in the morning, the former two coming from the west and the other two boys were bound westward. When the cars reached the summit of the hill opposite the C. O. Brown farm west of town, the machines crashed together.
    We were told that both cars were without headlights and [n]either one of the drivers did not see the approaching auto. The two vehicles were ramped against each other in such a manner that it required a powerful car to tear them apart. The radiators & the forepart of the motors were completely demolished as well as the windshields and front fenders. Heavy damage has been sustained by both parties who are evenly blamed for the accident as both autos were driven in middle of the road. Miraculously, the occupants of the cars escaped injury.

Ed. M. Kern of this city has refused an offer of $100,000 for his herd boar, which was made by a western breeder last week.
    When the offer was made Mr. Kern decided to take it but after the prospective purchaser left he wired him that he has changed and would not sell. This is the boar that has taken all the prizes in the Duroc swine shows and which has made Mr. Kern’s herd of Durocs so popular and he believes that this boar will net him more than $100,000 in the next year’s sales of hogs. -Norfolk News.

Marriage licenses were issued to: Otto R. Brabec, Stanton County, 22 and Mary Pekarek, Howells, 20. Stanley Spingler, Clarkson, 23 and Rose A. Klat, Clarkson, 20. George A. Hahn, Leigh, 23 and Florence M. Matzen, Leigh, 22. John M. Gurnett, Omaha, 32 and Helen C. Sedlacek, Schuyler, 24. Joseph P. Fiala, Howells, 26 and Bertha A. Stangel, Howells, 22.

March broke all production records ever made by the Ford Motor Company in Detroit, both for the number of cars produced in one day and one month. March 27, 4,256 cars left the assembly lines at the home plant and branches, while the record for the month was 94,299 cars.

A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Alex Rabeler at Leigh.

Frank Smrz has taken over the position at the First National Bank in Leigh made vacant by the resignation of George Humlicek.

Six Leigh people took the civil service examination for the postmastership of Leigh. The examinations were given at Madison. Those writirg on these examinations were Miss Florence Nichols, Mrs. Etta Jungbluth and Messrs. C. O. Kloppel, Everett Thorpe, Chris Wieboldt and H. C. Hooker. It will not be known for a month or more who will be the successfUl applicant.

The home of Mrs. Lena Matzen at Leigh was the scene of the beautiful wedding of her daughter, Miss Florence Matzen to George Hahn. The bridal pair was attended by Miss Hazel Hahn, sister of the bridegroom and Paul Matzen, brother of the bride.


June 24, 1920 - reprinted November 21, 1984

Albert Tuma of Schuyler left for his old home in Tabor, Bohemia after living in Colfax county 16 years. He plans to live there as he has many relatives in that country.

Frank and Joe Kopac and Judge Fiala went to Lake Andes, South Dakota on a fishing exposition and found the waters six feet higher than usual. Consequently fishing was very poor and the Schuyler Isacc Waltons came home fishless.

The marriage of Miss Helen Sedlacek of Schuyler and John M. Gurnett of Omaha, was solemnized at St. Augustine’s Catholic church with Father O’Sullivan of North Bend officiating. Only the immediate family members were present and a wedding dinner was served at the home of the bride’s parents.

Mrs. A. Folda of San Diego, Calif., writes that she expects to be back in Howeils and requests that his mail be sent there. Mrs. Folda and son, Lambert, and two daughters, Leona and Martha, have been living in California for the past year. They expected to make the trip via the motor route, and whether or not the gasoline restrictions will deter her trip or that she will come by rail here relatives in this city have not been informed.

James Skoda of Schuyler left for Denver to take charge of the work on the farm of Joseph Kadlecek. He is suffering from injuries to one of his legs when he was run over by a disc. The seat that Mr. Kadlecek was riding gave away and he was thrown beneath the machine. One leg was badly lacerated. He will be able to return to his farm duties in two or three months.

Joseph Nechvatal, Sr., passed away at St. Mary’s hospital in Columbus. He was ill several years due to stomach cancer. The funeral was held in St. Mary’s Catholic church in Schuyler.
    He was born in October, 1848 in Jihlava, Moravia and was united in marriage to Miss Frances Kucera on June 24, 1872. The couple came to Colfax county in 1880 and took a homestead in Wilson precinct. They left the farm in 1909 and moved to Schuyler to retire.
    The surviving relatives are the widow, four sons, Joseph, John L. and Emil of Colfax county, Rudolph of New Auburn, Wisconsin, and two daughters, Mrs. Mary Tuma and Mrs. Emily Svoboda, both of Colfax county. Three children preceded their father in death.

Dr. Knight reports the birth of a baby girl at the Charles Bartak home.

Mrs. J. M. Mundil was a passenger to Linwood, where she remained a few days with her son, Fred and family.

Mrs. Rudolph Hamsa was in Lincoln Friday visiting her daughter, Miss Helen, who has abandoned the idea of taking a vacation and deciding to remain in Lincoln, and take up a summer course at the university.

Esther Wolf was news reporter for the Clarkson school news, with Nathan A. Moore, editor.


June 24, 1920 - reprinted November 28, 1984

The county assessor has been compiling the records and finds the precinct, city and village real estate valuations as follows:
    Lincoln — $3,788,980; Shell Creek — $3,755,100; Stanton — $3,821,460; Midland - $3,711,510; Wilson — $3,745,490; Grant — $3,775,608; Schuyler — $2,530,125; Colfax — $3,186,420; Adams — $3,916,455; Richland — $3,115,900; Maple Creek — $3,777,940;
    Schuyler, city — $2,219,150; Howells, village — $615,450; Clarkson — $828,935; Richland, village — $224,945; Rogers, village — $91,225.

Mrs. Wm Uher passed away at the home of her brother, Albert Kajzler at Howells at 8:30 a.m., yesterday.

SS. Peter & Paul church was the scene of the wedding at Howells of Miss Bertha A. Stangel and Joseph P. Fiala. They were accompanied to the altar by Miss Agnes Stangel and George Fiala. Mrs. Egon Stangel played the church organ and was accompanied by Miss Mary Drahota on the violin. Little Agnes Stangel, sister of the bride was ringbearer.
    The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Stangel of Howells and the groom is the son of James O. Fiala, deceased, and of Mrs. Fiala-Hanzel, now residing at Dodge.

Funeral services were conducted at the Congregational church for Arthur Mills, not quite 18 years old, who died Tuesday of this week. The Rev. Rayburn officiated and burial was in Grove Hill cemetery, two miles south of Howells. He was ill with the dreaded disease of tuberculosis.
    His father also died of tuberculosis and his mother, formerly Miss Lulu Wellman of Howells, died in Howells in January, 1904, having also contracted consumption.

The young child then left an orphan, made his home with his grandmother, Mrs. H. A. Wellman, for all these years and received motherly care and administrations.

Jerry Telecky has rented his farm for the ensuing year to F. J. Vrba. Mr. Telecky’s health has not been the best for some time and he intends to retire from farming and take a rest.

John Maska of Howells sustained painful injuries by an automobile he was riding in and which turned turtle. He broke several ribs and is under the care of Dr. Meyers.

Stephen Rischoff of Howells is carrying his right hand in a sling as the result of a painful accident this week While assisting with the shelling of corn, his forefinger got caught in the gearing of the machinery, the said member torn off and the rest of the hand otherwise mutilated. Dr. Myers was summoned to render surgical attention.

Frank P. Belina purchased a new Buick touring car from the Howells Motor Co.

Mrs.Fanny Dworak returned to her home in Howells afer a two weeks visit in the home of her sister, Mrs. Jos. Wiesner and family in Kansas.

Odvarka Bros. are offering for sale a 120 acre farm, 9 miles from town, near to a state aid road, in the heart of Colfax county for $235 per acre. Good improvements, an excellent pasture and meadow.

James Palik of Howells was a passenger to Lincoln early this morning, so that he can be there in time the following day for a meeting of the republican state committeemen.

A "Red River" Special Nichols & Shepard threshing machine was unloaded here, the same sold by M. Hader to Frank Renemeyer of Howells.

John Tichota is driving about in a new Paige tourning car that he purchased from Richtig Bros., in Clarkson.

Frank Hampl returned to his home in Howells after a few days stay in Omaha, where he attended the annual meeting of the state optical specialists.

The Feast Day of SS. Peter & Paul will be held in Howells, June 26 when the Most Reverend Archbishop J. J. Harty, bishop of the Omaha dioceses will officiate at ceremonials to dedicate the new church.

Miss Marie Pekarek and Otto Brabec were married Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at St. John’s church in Howells, with the Rev. J. Drbal officiating.
    The couple was attended by her sister Miss Anna Pekarek, and the bridegroom’s brother, Frank Brabec.
    After the wedding, the newly wedded couple and many friends motored to the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. Mary Pekarek, where a wedding repast was laid in honor of the day’s great event.
    The bride is the daughter of the late Joseph Pelarek, deceased, and Mrs. Pekarek, residing on the home place southeast of Howells. Mr. Brabec, the son of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Brabec is from the Clarkson-Leigh vicinities and is a man well worthy of the charming bride he won with whom to enjoy the blessings and happy accociations of a true love and married state.

A. F. Jarata is sporting a new Overland "4", the same sold to him by the Service Motor Co.

Jerry Vacha is carrying his hand in a sling as the result of a glass cut while washing utensils at the cafe in Howells. Dr. Myers is giving the injury necessary attention.

A baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. Louis Brester, according to Dr. Myers.

The 7 week old infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Podliska died after a lingering illness. Burial was conducted from St. John’s church in Howells and interment was in the Bohemian cemetery.

Helen, the 13 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fuchs, suffered painful injuries when her hand was caught in a wringer and badly mangled it. Dr. Myers is caring for her.

Dr. Tamisiea made a purchase this week of a dandy new K45 Buick touring car from the Howells Motor Co. Of course its insured, and complete coverage at that---yes, in the Bankers Company.


June 24, 1920 - reprinted December 5, 1984

Blanche Humlicek and Nathan Moore, are gifted students at Clarkson public school, always making words rhyme.

Those who will graduate this year from Clarkson public schools will be Louis Boubin, Olga Faltys, William Hamsa, Libbie Houfek, Albin Hubenka, Blanche Humlicek, Marie Koci, Emil Kudrna, Nathan Moore, Esther Novotny, Olga Novotny, Lambert Radhaus, Rudolf Rosicky, John Swoboda, Rudolf Tomes, Esther M. WoLf, Gerald Zak and Joseph Zak.
    Of these Louis Boubin, Blanche Humlicek,Nathan Moore, Marie Koci, Rudolf Tomes, Joseph Zak and Esther Wolf have kept together since the primary year.

During the past few months there has been much dicsussion among some of the citizens as to the possibility of ghosts in Stanton county in the neighborhood of about 10 or 12 miles from Clarkson.
    Last Friday night 4 autos loaded with some of our young warriors with sufficient ammunition and a lot of courage went out to the mystery place to see the visitant of the spirit world. The visits of the spook has caused considerable discomfort to the residents of the community, especially to the tenants occupying the ghostly farm.
    Our boys went out to see all there is to be seen, but the ungracious spook some way or another happened to know about their visit and failed to show up.
    The expedition as known to us consisted of the following: Jos. Mundil, Emil H. Slama, Joe Jonas, John Jonas, James Stransky, Ed Makovsky, Frank Kubik, Ben Jonas, John Knapp, Ed Vitek, Jerry Zak and Richard Karel.

Last Friday, our real estate department negotiated a deal between Mrs. Josie Vraspir and Charles Psotta of near Pilger, whereby Mr. Psotta purchased the 40-acre tract of land owned by the former on the outskirts of Clarkson, for the fancy price of $425.00 per acre or the round sum of $17,000.00.
    Mr. Psotta will take possession March 1, and this land is considered the best little farm in this community and will make the Psotta family an ideal living place.

Blahoslav Novotny is spending his mid-summer vacation with home folks.

F. J. Miller reports the sale of Hammond Melo-Harp pianos to Anton Drahota, Bessie Drahota, J. B. Korte and Frank Baumert.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bos and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Karel returned from a 10 day motor trip through Nebraska and Kansas. They report a pleasant trip.

Miss Ethel Vanderbeek was a passenger to Bruno early this morning.

The namesday of SS Cyril & Methodius church in Clarkson will be celebrated July 5. Several neighboring priests will assist Father Bata at the High Mass, after which a feast will be held in honor of the visiting parishioners.
    After the church services, a dinner and dance will be held in the opera house throughout the afternoon and evening. The event is an annual affair.

Jess L. Woods was County Clerk and County Comissioners were August Kloppel, John Moural and Joseph Krejci.

Mr. and Mrs. Emil Coufal and family and Mr. and Mrs. Will J. Pollard and sons, Frank and Leonard, and Miss Lucille Pollard returned to their homes in Howells, after a trip to Erina, Garfield county. On the 16th of June, that community received six and one half inches of rain and the crops are in first class condition.
    The boys especially had a good time fishing. They also visited the ranch of W. J. Higgins, consisting of 1800 acres, where large herds of cattle are grazing.
    Grass and hay are plentiful and the crops along the river valley look very good. They made the trip in their autos.

Miss Francis Kracl, 18, a young lady living four miles from Rogers was beaten and possibly drugged the night of the American Legion picnic at North Bend. The girl attended the picnic with her mother and brothers. When they went home, the boys thought that the girl went home with the mother, and the mother thought the boys had taken her home. Sometime towards morning or after midnight the mother heard a car drive up and then away. She went to the door and found her daughter unconscious on the step and beaten. No clues have been found to what happened or who her assailant is. The doctors are doing all they can to bring her back to her right mind. Monday morning it is reported that she is improving.
    Later we learned that the authorities are of the opinion that the young lady was not drugged, not beaten, but that her injury may have been the result of an automobile wreck as her fractured skull tends to show.

Tuesday morning we received the happy news that Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Rozmarin of Omaha are the parents of a baby girl.

Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Fajman and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hahn and their families left for Omaha for a few days visit.

Mrs. Mary Platz and her daughter, Mrs. Anton Odvarka, Jr., and the latter’s son, Morris, went to Omaha yesterday to attend the wedding of Gustav Platz, who was married that day to Miss Nellie Glover. After a wedding trip to New York, Niagara Falls and other eastern cities, the newlyweds will locate in Lamoni, Iowa, where he has been tendered with a position as science instructor at the college in that city.
    Mr. Platz is a former Colfax county resident, having been born and raised in Schuyler.


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